Dalton Risner Faces Uncertain NFL Free Agency Despite Solid Play

The veteran guard's consistent performance has yet to translate into a lucrative long-term contract.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Dalton Risner, the 30-year-old guard recently with the Cincinnati Bengals, is facing an uncertain future in NFL free agency despite his reliable on-field production. Despite ranking 76th among the top 250 free agents by Pro Football Focus and maintaining solid pass-blocking grades, Risner has struggled to secure long-term, high-value contracts, often signing short-term deals worth just over $1 million per season.

Why it matters

Risner's situation underscores the challenges that many offensive linemen face in the NFL free agency market, where consistent performance does not always translate into lucrative, long-term deals. This uncertainty reflects the league's emphasis on factors beyond pure on-field production when evaluating and compensating offensive linemen.

The details

In 2025, Risner posted a 69.4 pass-blocking grade from PFF, ranking him 26th among guards. He allowed 2 sacks, 4 quarterback hits, and 17 pressures, while committing 4 penalties. Risner's versatility, appearing at both left and right guard, has been a valuable asset. However, his recent contracts have been modest, with the Bengals signing him for less than $2 million in 2025.

  • Risner's latest contract with the Bengals was for the 2025 season.
  • Risner previously had short-term deals with the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 and 2024.

The players

Dalton Risner

A 30-year-old guard who has played for the Cincinnati Bengals, Minnesota Vikings, and Denver Broncos in his NFL career.

Will Fries

The Minnesota Vikings' starting right guard, who signed a five-year, $88 million contract in 2025.

Christian Darrisaw

The Minnesota Vikings' left tackle, whose health will be critical for the team moving forward.

Ryan Kelly

The Minnesota Vikings' center, whose future with the team is uncertain.

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What’s next

As NFL free agency approaches in mid-March, teams will evaluate Risner's fit and contract value, with the Minnesota Vikings potentially interested in bolstering their offensive line.

The takeaway

Dalton Risner's situation highlights the unpredictable nature of NFL free agency for talented offensive linemen, where consistent performance does not always translate into lucrative, long-term contracts. This underscores the league's emphasis on factors beyond pure on-field production when evaluating and compensating offensive linemen.